In the movie Chariot’s of Fire, one of Eric Liddell’s spiritual mentors has a profound quote,”compromise is the language of the devil.” In Genesis 3, the serpent begins to twist the directions concerning the boundaries for Adam and Eve in the garden. The devil is attempting to create doubt in Eve’s mind so that she will second guess God’s commands from Genesis 2:15-17. Satan’s goal is to open the door to compromise by encouraging Eve to rationalize her hunger for an apple.
One chapter later, an envious Cain begins to store up a root of bitterness within his heart. Unable to fully trust God with his first fruits offering, Cain’s jealousy toward his younger brother Abel spreads from his heart to his head. Successful in deceiving Eve, her first born son is the Devil’s next target. This time sending a spirit to do his dirty work, crouching over Cain’s mind, planting a seed of murder. While God steps in to intervene in Genesis 4:6-7, compromise had already occurred, giving birth to sin, James 1:14-15.
One thing that I have learned over the last 20 years in ministry, no one is untouchable. There is a reason Satan appears as an angel of light, sneaking up on Christians, suggesting a miniscule compromise, then pouncing on them like a lion, seeking to devour their faith. One day someone can be a spiritual giant, then a moment later they fall from grace by choosing deeds of darkness over the light of Christ, Romans 13:12. Once people like Judas get behind the Devil’s door, their souls are forever lost. Although, some have escaped the Devil’s door, Hebrews 10:25-26, they enter heaven without any eternal crowns. Be on guard, stay alert and pray continually to stay on the narrow path, Matthew 7:13-14.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 